👶 Extended maternity and paternity leave for civil servants in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands government has announced an extension of maternity and paternity leave for civil servants. New mothers will now have an additional four weeks of leave, increasing from 90 working days to 110, with paid leave doubling from 30 to 60 working days. Fathers will now receive 20 working days of paternity leave, a significant increase from the previous two weeks, with paid leave also increasing from one week to ten working days. The changes are part of a broader effort to enhance benefits for new parents in the civil service. 🍼

Deputy Governor Franz Manderson praised the policy change, emphasizing its alignment with shared parenting responsibilities and the promotion of gender equality. Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, who co-championed the policy, highlighted the importance of parents spending critical time at home with their young children and the role this plays in dismantling traditional stereotypes. The extended parental leave exceeds the requirements of the Labour Law and statutory provisions in the private sector, setting a new standard for parental benefits in the country. 👪

The policy change does not apply to public sector workers in statutory authorities or government companies. However, it is seen as a significant step forward in supporting families and promoting a more equitable society. The new policy is expected to contribute to better work-life balance, strengthen family bonds, and help break traditional gender roles. The changes are set to be implemented following drafting instructions to amend the Personnel Regulations. 📜